Pretoria swimmer takes on 32-mile challenge at Midmar Mile to support charity
Pretoria swimmer Reino von Wielligh will swim 32 miles during the renowned aQuellé Midmar Mile Charity Challenge
Image: Supplied
Pretoria's Reino von Wielligh is making waves, not just in the water but also in the world of charity.
He is set to swim an astonishing 32 miles during the renowned aQuellé Midmar Mile Charity Challenge, which will be held at Midmar Dam in the picturesque KwaZulu-Natal Midlands from the February 5 to 8.
The aQuellé Midmar Mile is the world’s largest open-water swimming event.
This year holds special significance for the 32-year-old swimmer as he marks his 21st consecutive participation in the Midmar Mile, alongside his ninth year dedicated to charity.
Von Wielligh said every year he returns not just because of the amazing work that Midmar does to support charities, but because of the camaraderie between swimmers.
“For me it’s to see everyone reach their personal goal and smile once they complete the mile, whether it’s your 100th or first, the feeling of joy and accomplishment is shared among all swimmers," he said.
This year, Von Wielligh is doubling his usual distance.
“The 32 miles has been an idea over the last two years as I want to create even greater awareness for children’s cancer charity, Happy Bundles.
“My inspiration for this ambitious challenge is that I know I can use my swimming talents to help kids with cancer and people with disabilities, and hopefully by swimming 32 miles, I will be able to get more people involved in these charities,” he said.
His fundraising target is set at R32,000, with part of the donations allotted to the newly appointed aQuellé Midmar Mile charity, the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD).
Since 2016, the aQuellé Midmar Mile has raised over R22 million for a variety of charitable causes.
For Von Wielligh, preparation has been gruelling, covering 60-70km a week in training.
“To prepare for the 32 miles, I have trained for the last seven months, doing sessions of up to 20km in a single session in a pool. Midmar Dam is known for its waves and wind, each mile will be a feat on its own getting closer to the 32,” he said.
Joining Von Wielligh is Olympic medallist Terence Parkin.
Von Wielligh hopes others will take part.
“I hope to inspire people and fellow swimmers to take on the challenge to join the Midmar Mile Charity Challenge and swim to make a difference,” he said.